1 Kings 14:17

Then Jeroboam's wife got up and departed for Tirzah, and as soon as she stepped over the threshold of the house, the boy died.

Study Bible

So Jeroboam’s wife arose and departed
This phrase marks the beginning of a significant and somber journey. Jeroboam's wife, unnamed in this passage, represents the silent yet pivotal roles women often played in biblical narratives. Her arising and departing signify obedience to the prophet Ahijah's instructions, despite the grim prophecy she received. The Hebrew root for "arose" (קוּם, qum) often implies a decisive action, suggesting her resolve and acceptance of the divine message. This moment reflects the broader biblical theme of human response to God's word, highlighting the importance of obedience even in difficult circumstances.

and she came to Tirzah
Tirzah, meaning "delight" or "pleasantness" in Hebrew, was a significant city in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Historically, it served as a royal city before Samaria became the capital. Archaeological findings suggest Tirzah was a place of considerable importance and beauty, which contrasts with the tragedy unfolding in this narrative. The journey to Tirzah underscores the tension between the city's name and the sorrow awaiting Jeroboam's wife, illustrating the often paradoxical nature of life and divine judgment.

As she stepped over the threshold of the house
The threshold in ancient cultures was more than a physical boundary; it symbolized transition and change. In this context, stepping over the threshold marks the fulfillment of Ahijah's prophecy. The Hebrew word for "threshold" (מִפְתָּן, miftan) can also imply a place of decision or judgment. This moment is a poignant reminder of the inevitability of God's word coming to pass. It serves as a metaphor for crossing from one state of being to another, from hope to despair, and from life to death.

the boy died
This phrase delivers the tragic culmination of the prophecy. The death of Jeroboam's son is not merely a personal loss but a national one, symbolizing the spiritual decay of Israel under Jeroboam's rule. The Hebrew word for "died" (מוּת, muth) is stark and final, emphasizing the seriousness of divine judgment. In a broader scriptural context, this event serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of idolatry and disobedience to God. It calls believers to reflect on the importance of faithfulness and the reality of divine justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeroboam's Wife
The unnamed wife of King Jeroboam, who was sent to the prophet Ahijah to inquire about the fate of her sick son.

2. Jeroboam
The first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy. His reign was marked by idolatry and disobedience to God.

3. Tirzah
A city in the northern kingdom of Israel, which served as a royal residence before Samaria became the capital.

4. The Child
The son of Jeroboam and his wife, whose illness and subsequent death were foretold by the prophet Ahijah.

5. Ahijah the Prophet
A prophet who delivered God's message to Jeroboam's wife regarding the fate of her son and the future of Jeroboam's dynasty.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Jeroboam's idolatry and disobedience led to severe consequences for his family. This serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's commands.

The Role of Prophets
Ahijah's prophecy highlights the role of prophets as God's messengers, delivering both warnings and promises. It underscores the need to heed God's word through His chosen vessels.

The Certainty of God's Word
The fulfillment of Ahijah's prophecy demonstrates the certainty and reliability of God's word. Believers can trust that God's promises and warnings will come to pass.

The Impact of Leadership
Jeroboam's actions as a leader had far-reaching effects on his family and nation. This teaches the importance of godly leadership and the influence leaders have on those they lead.

The Reality of Judgment
The death of Jeroboam's son serves as a sobering reminder of God's judgment. It calls believers to examine their lives and align with God's will to avoid similar consequences.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jeroboam's wife and her son illustrate the consequences of disobedience to God? Reflect on a time when you experienced consequences for disobedience and how it affected your faith journey.

2. In what ways does the role of Ahijah the prophet in this account encourage us to listen to God's messengers today? How can we discern true prophetic voices in our lives?

3. How does the fulfillment of Ahijah's prophecy in 1 Kings 14:17 strengthen your trust in the reliability of God's word? Can you think of other instances in the Bible where God's word was fulfilled?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jeroboam's leadership that apply to our roles as leaders in our families, workplaces, or communities? How can we ensure our leadership aligns with God's principles?

5. How does the reality of God's judgment in this passage motivate you to live a life that is pleasing to Him? What steps can you take to align more closely with God's will in your daily life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11:29-31
This passage describes Ahijah's initial prophecy to Jeroboam, foretelling his rise to power. It connects to 1 Kings 14:17 by showing the continuity of Ahijah's role as a prophet in Jeroboam's life.

Deuteronomy 28:15-68
These verses outline the curses for disobedience to God's commandments, which relate to the consequences faced by Jeroboam's family due to his idolatry.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
This passage emphasizes the importance of obedience over sacrifice, paralleling Jeroboam's failure to obey God despite his position as king.